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Infographic: Europe Moving to the Right

In 2017-18, most European left-of-centre parties suffered a serious defeat in parliamentary elections. In France, the Czech Republic, and Italy, new centrist parties were able to expand their political influence. In Austria, Hungary, and Slovenia, traditional conservative parties regained ground. And, with the exception of UKIP, radical right-wing parties strengthened or maintained their positions across Europe. Read more

Infographic: Democracy and the FIFA World Cup

In 2010, when Russia was selected as host of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the country was ranked by the Polity IV Project as “anocratic” or hybrid political system tilted towards democracy. Whilst the Russian score is on average, most World Cup hosts were considerably more democratic at the time of selection.

Infographic: Russia's Regional Partners: Now and then

In the 1990s, Russia tried, rather unsuccessfully, to reinforce political and military ties with all major former Soviet republics. Today, the country is forging close ties with only a handful of post-Soviet states, while expanding economic and security cooperation with other regional powers. See more

Infographic: Russia’s 2018 Presidential Elections

On 18 March 2018, Russians are electing their President for the next six years. Incumbent President Vladimir Putin enjoys high approval rates and will most likely be re-elected. Yet, many Russians may opt not to take part in the vote.

Infographic: Presidential Elections in Russia 1991-2018

China moving towards Autocracy?

China’s National People’s Congress changed the country’s constitution as to remove the ten-year presidential term limit, allowing President Xi to remain in power indefinitely. What implications does this have for China’s political system? Is it becoming more autocratic or more dictatorial?

Presidential Elections in Kyrgyzstan: Democratic Competition in a Clan Society

On 15 October, Kyrgyzstan is electing a new president. These elections are a small sensation in the Central Asian country, because they could mark the first peaceful power transfer since independence. President Atambayev is not seeking another term. At the same time, it is uncertain whether the ruling party’s candidate will be able to win the vote. Still, it would be wrong to speak of democratic elections.